Le Meurice, Paris: The Art of Palace Living in the Heart of the City

Updated on: October 3, 2025

Stepping into Le Meurice is like entering a private Parisian palace where history, art, and luxury intertwine. Since 1835, this iconic address on the rue de Rivoli has been a beacon for artists, thinkers, and travelers seeking the very essence of Parisian elegance. With the Tuileries Garden as its front yard and the Louvre just a stone's throw away, the hotel offers more than a stay—it offers an immersion into the living heart of Paris, where every corridor whispers tales of Salvador Dalí and every chandelier reflects a legacy of refined hospitality.

A Legacy of Artistic Grandeur

Le Meurice’s story is woven into the cultural fabric of Paris. Founded by Charles-Augustin Meurice to welcome British travelers, it quickly evolved into a sanctuary for the avant-garde. The hotel’s most famous resident, Salvador Dalí, made it his winter home for over three decades, infusing the property with his playful, surrealist spirit. This artistic heritage was celebrated during a landmark 2007 renovation by designer Philippe Starck, who paid homage to Dalí while incorporating his own visionary touch. Beyond Dalí, Pablo Picasso hosted his wedding banquet here, embedding the hotel further into the annals of art history.

A unique sculptural detail of embracing columns in the Le Meurice lobby.

Where You'll Stay: Rooms and Suites with a Story

Accommodations at Le Meurice are a masterclass in timeless design. The work of designers Lally & Berger, the rooms and suites blend French classical décor with contemporary comfort. Think serene color palettes, original artworks, and luxurious linens. Choices range from the intimate Classic Rooms overlooking tranquil courtyards to the breathtaking Executive Rooms with Eiffel Tower views and private balconies. For the ultimate experience, the suites, such as the Prestige Suite or the historic Presidential Apartment Dalí, offer separate living areas, stunning park views, and complimentary round-trip transfers, transforming a visit into a true residential experience in the city.

The lavish living room in the Presidential Apartment Dalí, reflecting its artistic legacy.

A Culinary Destination in Itself

Le Meurice stands as a gastronomic powerhouse in a city renowned for its food.

Restaurant le Meurice Alain Ducasse: A Two-Star Symphony

Overseen by the legendary Alain Ducasse and led by rising star Executive Chef Amaury Bouhours, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant is an epicurean pilgrimage. The dining room, inspired by the Salon de la Paix at the Château de Versailles, provides a majestic setting for a cuisine that champions the pure, authentic flavor of exceptional produce.

The grand, Versailles-inspired interior of Restaurant le Meurice Alain Ducasse.

Le Dalí: Where Whimsy Meets Flavor

Named after the iconic artist, Restaurant Le Dalí buzzes with a creative and casual energy. Designed by Philippe Starck, it’s the perfect spot for a lively lunch, a decadent afternoon tea by pastry maestro Cédric Grolet, or a dinner celebrating seasonal French classics with a modern twist by Chef Clémentine Bouchon.

The Sweet Arts of Cédric Grolet

Revered as one of the world's best pastry chefs, Cédric Grolet works his magic throughout the hotel. His sculpted fruit pastries are legendary, available at his dedicated La Pâtisserie du Meurice boutique around the corner. His creations also grace breakfast, brunch, and the unforgettable afternoon tea, making any meal a sweet celebration.

Beyond Your Room: The Le Meurice Experience

The hotel’s offerings extend far beyond its beautiful accommodations, designed to create a deeply personalized Parisian journey.

Curated Artist Journeys

Le Meurice offers exclusive guided tours that delve into the lives of the legendary artists who shaped its history. Walk in the footsteps of Picasso in Montmartre, discover the revolutionary brushstrokes of Monet culminating at the Musée de l'Orangerie, or explore the love and torment of Rodin through a private trail to his museum.

Events Fit for a Palace

With three magnificent event spaces—Salon Pompadour, Salon Tuileries, and Salon Jeu de Paume—Le Meurice provides a stunning backdrop for weddings, galas, and meetings. The hotel’s team crafts bespoke events, supported by the unparalleled culinary talents of its kitchens.

Moments of Wellness

For relaxation and rejuvenation, La Maison Valmont pour Le Meurice is the only Valmont spa in Paris. This serene sanctuary offers bespoke treatments, a state-of-the-art fitness studio, and a hammam, ensuring a holistic wellness experience.

The Heart of Historic Paris

Location is paramount, and Le Meurice’s is unbeatable. Situated at 228 rue de Rivoli, you are opposite the Tuileries Garden, within walking distance of the Louvre, Place de la Concorde, and the chic boutiques of Place Vendôme. The hotel serves as the perfect base from which to explore the city's iconic landmarks and hidden gems.